This week the Pittsburgh Steelers square off against the Washington Commanders on the road in a battle of two of the top teams in the NFL. We reached out to Commanders Wire editor Bryan Manning to give us his thoughts on the upcoming game.
1 – What are your thoughts on Jayden Daniels midway through his rookie season?
Jayden Daniels has been even more than Washington fans could have hoped for. He’s phenomenal on the field, he prepares like a 10-year veteran, puts his teammates above himself and has completely transformed a franchise that badly needed it. Many of Washington’s changes begin with owner Josh Harris, GM Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn, but finding a dynamic and beloved franchise quarterback is the home run this franchise needed.
2 – Daniels gets all the headlines but who is another guy on offense who the Steelers should be worried about?
There are a few. I will start with Terry McLaurin. McLaurin has always been one of the NFL’s best receivers but has played with a dozen quarterbacks before this season in five seasons. He finally has his quarterback. He and Daniels already have an outstanding connection, particularly in the deep passing game. Pittsburgh fans should also know about the backfield duo of Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler. They complement one another extremely well, with Robinson being more of the every-down back while Ekeler handles passing-game duties.
3 – One more on Daniels. How would you try to defend someone so dynamic?
It is easy to say you should try to keep him in the pocket, but Daniels is terrific in the pocket. While he is an elite athlete and can take over games with his legs, he prefers to play from the pocket. I would say Pittsburgh’s best option is take away the read option. The Commanders have been very effective with the read option, so being extremely disciplined could limit some of Washington’s big runs.
4 – Who is the sleeper guy on defense who deserves more praise for their play this season?
I feel like linebacker Frankie Luvu could be that guy. People around the NFL know he is good, but the former UDFA has toiled in anonymity until signing with Washington. He’s been terrific in all phases. He’s an excellent pass rusher, too. LB/DE Dante Fowler is a former top-five pick, but that was nine years ago. He’s moved around a lot in recent years, but has found a home in Washington, leading the Commanders with 6.5 sacks.
5 – What is your prediction for this week’s game?
I can see this game going either way. There are many reasons I am leaning toward the Steelers. Pittsburgh’s defense is the best Washington has played. Can the Commanders block T.J. Watt, Cameron Heyward and Alex Highsmith? Mike Tomlin’s teams are also excellent coming off a bye week. However, I think Dan Quinn will have his team up to the challenge against an excellent team in a close game. I believe the Commanders win a close one late. Commanders 20, Steelers 17
